International Students Assaulted for Offering Namaz
In a distressing incident at Gujarat University, several international students became victims of assault allegedly perpetrated by a group of individuals while they were engaged in offering namaz. Prompt action has been taken by law enforcement authorities, with the arrest of two individuals and further investigations underway to bring all culprits to justice.
Arrests Made Following Assault
Hitesh Mewada and Bharat Patel, residents of Ahmedabad, have been apprehended by the police. The charges against them span various sections of the Indian Penal Code, encompassing 143 (unlawful assembly), 147 (rioting), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), 324 (voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons or means), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others), and 447 (punishment for trespass), among others, as stated by Tarun Duggal, the deputy commissioner of police (DCP) Zone 7.
MEA Intervention
As the incident gained widespread attention, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has initiated contact with the Gujarat state government to address the situation promptly.
International Students Targeted
Five international students hailing from Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, South Africa, and Sri Lanka were subjected to physical harm when a mob attacked them during their namaz prayers on the campus.
Official Statements
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed the incident, stating, “An incidence of violence took place at Gujarat University in Ahmedabad on Saturday. State government is taking strict action against the perpetrators. Two foreign students were injured in the clash. One of them has been discharged from hospital after receiving medical attention. MEA is in touch with the Gujarat government.”
Government’s Response
State Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi has reportedly instructed Gujarat’s law enforcement authorities to expedite the arrest of the accused individuals and ensure a fair investigation into the matter.
Cultural Sensitivity Training
In a rather peculiar statement, Gujarat University’s vice-chancellor, Neerja A Gupta, emphasized the necessity for foreign students to undergo “cultural sensitivity” training. She expressed intentions to provide cultural orientation sessions to enhance their understanding and security.
Police Investigation
According to Ahmedabad Police Commissioner GS Malik, the altercation occurred when a group of 20-25 people confronted international students offering namaz, resulting in physical violence and property damage. Two students, one from Sri Lanka and the other from Tajikistan, sustained injuries and were hospitalized. An FIR has been filed against the perpetrators, with nine investigative teams assigned to probe the incident. Two arrests have already been made, and efforts are underway to detain all individuals involved.
Conclusion
With approximately 300 international students enrolled at Gujarat University, ensuring their safety and well-being is paramount. The swift action taken by law enforcement authorities and the government’s proactive measures are crucial steps towards delivering justice and safeguarding the interests of foreign students. The incident underscores the importance of promoting cultural harmony and understanding among diverse communities within educational institutions.
